First Nations Studies

First Nations studies focus on the richness and diversity of First Nations cultures and languages. These cultures and languages are examined within their own unique contexts and within historical, contemporary, and future realities. First Nations studies are based on a holistic perspective that integrates the past, present, and future. First Nations peoples are the original inhabitants of North America and live in sophisticated, organized, and self-sufficient societies. The First Nations constitute a cultural mosaic as rich and diverse as that of Western Europe, including different cultural groups (e.g., Nisga'a, KwaKwaka'Wakw, Nlaka'pamux, Secwepemc, Skomish, Tsimshian). Each is unique and has a reason to be featured in the school system. The First Nations of British Columbia constitute an important part of the historical and contemporary fabric of the province.

Value of Integrating First Nations Studies

First Nations values and beliefs are durable and relevant today.
There is a need to validate and substantiate First Nations identity.
First Nations peoples have strong, dynamic, evolving cultures that have adapted to changing world events and trends.
There is a need to understand similarities and differences among cultures to create tolerance, acceptance, and mutual respect.
There is a need for informed, reasonable discussion and decisionmaking regarding First Nations issues, based on accurate information (for example, as modern treaties are negotiated by Canada, British Columbia, and First Nations).

In studying First Nations, it is expected that the students will:

demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for the values, customs, and traditions of First Nations peoples
demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation for unique First Nations communications systems
demonstrate a recognition of the importance of the relationship between First Nations peoples and the natural world
recognize dimensions of First Nations art as a total cultural expression
give examples of the diversity and functioning of the social, economic, and political systems of First Nations peoples in traditional and contemporary contexts
describe the evolution of human rights and freedoms as they pertain to First Nations peoples

Some examples of curriculum integration include:

Visual Arts - comparing the artistic styles of two or more First Nations cultures

English Language Arts - analysing portrayals and images of First Nations peoples in various works of literature

Home Economics - identifying forms of food, clothing, and shelter in past and contemporary First Nations cultures

Technology Education - describing the sophistication of traditional First Nations technologies (e.g., bentwood or kerfed boxes, weaving, fishing gear)

Physical Education - participating in and developing an appreciation for First Nations games and dances

This summary is derived from First Nations Studies: Curriculum Assessment Framework (Primary through Graduation) , Aboriginal Education Branch, 1992, and B.C. First Nations Studies 12 Curriculum , Aboriginal Education Branch, 1994.

Revised: January 26, 1999

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